How Capitalism is Making Us Miserable: The Hidden Costs of Success in Modern Society

This article explores how capitalism shapes modern society's perception of success, revealing the hidden costs it imposes on our mental health, well-being, and freedom. It delves into the emotional toll of chasing success in a system that values profit over people, the commodification of well-being as a quick fix for deeper societal issues, and how capitalism has redefined freedom and individuality through consumerism and work culture. Ultimately, it calls for a redefinition of success, one that prioritizes personal fulfillment, mental health, and a life that feels truly worth living.

Fatherhood Unfiltered: 12 Months of Surviving Noise, Chaos, and Life's Unexpected Lessons

In "Fatherhood Unfiltered: 12 Months of Surviving Noise, Chaos, and Life's Unexpected Lessons," I dive into the hilarious, frustrating, and deeply rewarding journey of my first year as a dad. From the newfound sensitivity to loud trucks and oblivious runners, to realizing that most people are in their own bubble of distraction, this piece explores the unexpected challenges of fatherhood. Through the noise and chaos, I’ve discovered that parenting isn’t about following expert advice—it’s about showing up, being present, and adapting to the constant change that life with a baby brings.

Evan Sutter28 October 2024tips for parenting, becoming a dad, babies and happiness, how to be a good dad, life and kdsComment

The Price of Knowledge: How Expensive University Degrees Fuel a Miserable Society

The high cost of university education, especially in countries like Australia and the US, is not only a financial burden but a societal trap, keeping people stuck in unfulfilling jobs and lives. As tuition fees soar, many who dream of changing careers or pursuing passions are deterred by the looming threat of debt. This sense of entrapment breeds widespread misery, affecting relationships, mental health, and contributing to societal issues like domestic violence, depression, and an overburdened health system. Once a gateway to opportunity, universities have become commodified institutions prioritizing profits over learning, leaving people living lives of quiet desperation. It’s time to rethink how we value education and explore alternative pathways to success.

Nedd Brockmann: A Hero Running for the Homeless, or Just Running for Fame?

This article critically examines Nedd Brockmann’s marathon across Australia, questioning whether his mission to help the homeless was driven by genuine care or a desire for fame and personal gain. It explores the rise of performative activism, where individuals promote causes for self-benefit rather than meaningful change, highlighting the contradictions in Brockmann’s actions—such as raising money for homelessness while endorsing the Melbourne Cup, an event tied to gambling, addiction, and social harm. The piece delves into the commodification of virtue in a capitalist society, the erosion of public trust in false heroes, and the need for authentic activism that aligns actions with values, urging readers to look beyond surface narratives and scrutinize the true motivations behind public figures.

The Hidden Costs of What We Consume: Reclaiming Our Health and Wellbeing Through Awareness

This piece explores the far-reaching impact of consumption on health and wellbeing, while emphasizing the interconnected nature of everything we consume—from food and media to everyday products. It’s an invitation to shift towards mindful, intentional living.

Evan Sutter14 October 2024what are we consuming, keys to great health, tv, diet and wellbeing, tv and happinessComment

Checked Out of Life: How Constantly Listening Means Missing Everything

In a world where earbuds and earpods have become our constant companions, we may be more connected than ever—but ironically, we're also more disconnected from reality. This article explores the hidden cost of tuning into podcasts, music, and external content while tuning out the world around us. From running on autopilot to shopping in a social vacuum, we miss out on the sounds, sensations, and spontaneous connections that make life rich and meaningful. The very tools we use to "improve" ourselves often detach us from the present moment and our own inner wisdom. By always seeking external input, we risk losing touch with the most important voices—those of our bodies, minds, and the world directly around us.

Why I Quit Social Media: Reclaiming Time, Success, and Peace of Mind Without Instagram & Facebook

In this blog post, I share my decision to quit social media after years of being caught between its unethical practices and the pressure to maintain an online presence for my business. While platforms like Instagram and Facebook promised success, I found little reward in terms of real engagement or sales and began questioning whether paid ads and constant posting were worth my time. As I stepped away, I realized that social media had distracted me from meaningful human connections and alternative ways to promote my work. This piece explores how quitting social media has allowed me to focus on what truly matters for my business and well-being.

The Death of Virtue in the Age of Success: How Neoliberalism Gave Us Narcissistic Heroes

In today’s society, the definition of success has been distorted by capitalist and neoliberal systems that reward traits like narcissism, selfishness, and arrogance, elevating figures such as CEOs, politicians, and influencers who embody these characteristics. This shift has sidelined virtues like compassion, honesty, and generosity, replacing them with louder, more deceptive qualities that thrive in the fast-paced, attention-grabbing culture of social media. As a result, we are raising generations who look up to anti-heroes that prioritize wealth and fame over integrity. The article questions whether teaching our children values like kindness and integrity still holds relevance in a world driven by competition and greed, while suggesting that true fulfillment and a life well-lived come from fostering deeper connections and authentic joy over material success.

Evan Sutter7 October 2024Elon Musk, Joe Rogan, Who is Jordan Peterson, Donald Trump is dumbComment

Behind the Success: How Cheating Shaped Craig Bellamy’s Winning Culture

This article delves into the often-overlooked aspect of Craig Bellamy’s coaching legacy at the Melbourne Storm, highlighting how his success has been significantly shaped by the club’s deliberate salary cap breaches. While Bellamy is praised for his meticulous coaching and culture-building, the article argues that much of his triumphs stem from the unfair advantages gained during the years of cheating. Stripping premierships may remove trophies, but it cannot take away the invaluable experience, confidence, and composure his players developed during grand finals. This tainted foundation continues to benefit the Storm as they head into the 2024 grand final, casting a shadow over Bellamy’s legacy.

Evan Sutter2 October 2024Melbourne Storm, Craig Bellamy, Melbourne Storm Success, Salary Cap Cheating, 2024 NRL Grand Final, CheatsComment

Be Radical, Be Cool: Why It’s Time to Throw Away Your TV

This piece challenges the consumer-driven culture perpetuated by television, urging readers to make radical choices for a more meaningful life. By pointing out how TV fosters unhealthy habits, superficial values, and a cycle of endless work and consumption, the article encourages people to reject this lifestyle in favor of simplicity, authentic experiences, and personal well-being. It calls for a conscious shift away from materialism, advocating for time over money, human connection over possessions, and living with purpose by rethinking what we truly value.

Breaking Free: A Simple and Effective Plan to Stop Drinking

Looking to stop drinking and take control of your life? Our Ways to Stop Drinking plan offers practical steps to help you quit alcohol for good. From understanding your reasons for quitting to building a support network, managing cravings, and creating healthy daily habits, this program gives you the tools you need to succeed. Whether you're cutting back or quitting entirely, this plan provides the guidance and encouragement to help you stay on track. Take the first step towards a healthier, clearer, and more vibrant life—check out the full program today!

Evan Sutter26 September 2024how to stop drinking, alcohol and health, how can I stop drinking, drinking, i need to stop drinkingComment

How Old Surfers Taught Me the Power and Importance of Original Thinking

Every time I head out for a paddle, I see the same scene—an old surfer hobbling into the water, clinging to his decades-old shortboard like it’s a relic of glory days long gone. His body’s worn down—busted shoulder, replaced knee—but his mindset? Even more stuck in the past. Fifty years of doing the same thing, in the same way, while the world of possibilities floats right by him. Meanwhile, I’m on my SUP, cruising up and down the beach, catching waves, getting stronger. It’s not just about the board—it’s about the mindset. Where’s the curiosity? The willingness to think differently, try something new, and evolve? Instead, I see fear—fear of change, fear of what the mates might say. It’s a life spent resisting growth, and that, more than anything, is what leaves them broken, both physically and mentally.

Escape the Noise: Reclaiming Freedom and Joy Beyond the Blue Mountains UTMB

This piece explores the impact of commoditizing innate human activities like running, using the Blue Mountains UTMB as a prime example. It delves into how reliance on curated, commercialized events can diminish our originality, freedom, and zest for life. The article encourages readers to break away from these packaged experiences, suggesting a return to the simple, liberating joy of running in a quiet forest—where true freedom and connection with nature can be rediscovered.

Evan Sutter16 September 2024blue mountains utmb, trail running events, UTMB ultra, running and happinessComment

The Green Mirage: How Elon Musk, Tesla, and Social Enterprises Exploit Your Conscience for Profit

This blog post unpacks how the rise of social enterprises, conscious consumerism, and green initiatives—exemplified by Elon Musk and Tesla—are clever marketing ploys designed to enrich the wealthy while fooling consumers into believing they are making a positive impact. The post highlights Musk's support for climate change denier Donald Trump as evidence of Tesla's true priorities and delves into other examples of greenwashing, such as BP's invention of the "carbon footprint" and the "Keep America Beautiful" campaign. It also critiques Jon Kabat-Zinn's commercialization of mindfulness, arguing that in a capitalist world, even the noblest causes can be manipulated for profit.

Evan Sutter9 September 2024elon musk and success, how to be rich like elon musk, tesla and climate changeComment

The Novak Djokovic-Margaret Court Conundrum: How The Media Uses a Racist, Homophobe to Undermine the G.O.A.T

In this article, we explore the deep-seated biases within the tennis world that have led to the systematic undermining of Novak Djokovic’s extraordinary achievements. While Federer and Nadal were celebrated as the greatest of all time when they held the Grand Slam record, Djokovic’s success has been met with a curious shift in narrative, where his accomplishments are suddenly overshadowed by comparisons to Margaret Court—a figure whose legacy is marred by racism and homophobia. We delve into how this comparison reveals a reluctance to fully embrace Djokovic, a man who defies the sport’s traditional, privileged mold. This article challenges readers to confront the uncomfortable truths about why the tennis establishment and media continue to diminish the legacy of a man who is, by all metrics, the greatest of all time.

How Donald Trump Can Set You Free: A Guide to Liberation From Our Noble Leader

This article explores how Donald Trump's political rise can be seen as a liberating force, encouraging us to let go of societal pressures and embrace the absurdity of life. By highlighting the futility of meritocracy, the irrelevance of truth, and the power of shamelessness, the piece suggests that Trump's example can free us from the burdens of self-improvement, people-pleasing, and the quest for truth. Ultimately, it invites readers to stop taking life so seriously, relax, and enjoy the ride in a world where anything is possible.

Evan Sutter26 August 2024how donald trump can set us free, trump and happiness, Donald Trump life lessonsComment

Elevating Team Dynamics: Strategies for Enhanced Communication and Collaboration

Effective collaboration is the cornerstone of a thriving business. For leaders, fostering an environment where teamwork flourishes is essential to driving success and innovation. By prioritizing open communication, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to goals, business owners can enhance collaboration within their teams, leading to better decision-making, increased productivity, and a stronger organizational culture.

Evan Sutter23 August 2024by Art Holaus of Bizhelppro.com, business advice, guest post, team dynamicsComment

The Cost of Fragmented Thinking: How Ignoring Interconnected Issues Harms Mental Health in Australia

This article examines how the failure to recognize and address the interconnected nature of societal issues negatively impacts mental health in Australia. It highlights the influence of economic insecurity, social isolation, and inadequate regulation of technology on mental health, arguing for a holistic approach that addresses these root causes through integrated policies. The article calls for economic reforms, accessible education and healthcare, community-building initiatives, and stricter regulation of social media to create a healthier and more supportive society.

Empowering Communities: The Power of Collective Action

Tired of being over-taxed while corporations evade their fair share? Frustrated with unjust government policies that target the powerless? It’s time for change, and it starts with us. Join my newsletter at evansutter.com to unite our voices and demand a fairer system. Together, we can hold corporations accountable, challenge unjust policies, support true leaders, and empower our communities. Sign up today and be part of a powerful movement for justice, social equality, and economic reform. Let’s make our voices heard and transform our future!

Chasing Solitude: Finding Joy Beyond the Commodification of Ultra Marathons

Chasing Solitude: Reclaiming the Joy of Running

Amidst the crowded trails of the Blue Mountains, I found myself longing for the serenity that once defined the experience of an ultra marathon. The air was filled with the blare of speakers, the chatter of runners capturing live videos and selfies, and the overwhelming presence of people. The mountains, once a refuge for introspection, had become a stage for social media performances.

Reflecting on this, I recalled my friend, a pioneer of beach volleyball, who lamented how the sport had shifted from a beautiful dance of "keeping the ball in the air" to a game focused on quick victories and spectacle. The essence of the game, like the essence of running, was overshadowed by commercialization.

The UTMB Blue Mountains event left me exhausted—not from the physical challenge, but from the noise and lost opportunity for reflection. Running, a simple and freeing act, had been commodified.

Now, I choose a different path. I'll return to the joy of running in a forest, seeking peace away from the crowds and commercialization. Running is an act of liberation, and it's time to reclaim it for the sheer joy of movement and connection with nature.

Evan Sutter5 August 2024ultramarathons and money, not another product, running and freedom, running and happinessComment

***Ideas, Musings & Support On* *Sucking The Marrow Out Of Life***

~Books, Talks, Podcasts, Programs, Articles, Films, Events, Adventures, Tees, Coaching & Consulting~

Chasing Solitude: Reclaiming the Joy of Running

ABN: 27 550 946 637

Ideas, Musings & Support On Sucking The Marrow Out Of Life

~Books, Talks, Podcasts, Programs, Articles, Films, Events, Adventures, Tees, Coaching & Consulting~

Chasing Solitude: Reclaiming the Joy of Running

***Ideas, Musings & Support On* *Sucking The Marrow Out Of Life***